However, the reason the itch develops isn't completely understood. One study from suggests that the same mechanisms at work with eczema itchiness are involved in itching during wound healing.
Additionally, itching that occurs during wound healing might be the result of poorly translated nerve signals. Your brain might receive a signal that your skin is regenerating via collagen synthesis, but that information is translated as an itching sensation.
And so, what you feel is that itching sensation. While some experts believe histamines, which are released by the body to help with wound healing, may contribute to itching, research suggests that their effect may be minimal. Signs that a wound may be infected include:. Scratching an itch feels great.
Scratching an itchy wound that is in the process of healing, however, can cause scarring and prolong healing if you open the wound back up again. You might even introduce bacteria, causing an infection to develop. Proper care ensures the wound heals without complications and lessens your chances of getting a scar. For a minor wound:. Some wounds require stitches. By alleviating the itch, you can avoid a prolonged healing process and potential infection from scratching too much.
Here are a few ways to stop the itching:. It may also help to find effective distractions from the itching.
If itching is very severe and there is a high risk of infection, your healthcare provider may recommend a sleep medication or a neuropathic drug called Neurontin gabapentin to help you rest and decrease the urge to itch. Some people are at a higher risk of experiencing slow wound healing, which can lead to infection. The following people have a higher risk of complications from a wound:. If you tend to scratch in your sleep, you may want to wear hand coverings. They can prevent you from damaging your skin or introducing bacteria to the wound.
It may also help to cut your fingernails. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Some patients have also told me that the local application of cold helps; try a bag of frozen vegetables such as peas or corn pressed up against the area of discomfort, particularly before going to sleep at night. Systemic medications taken by mouth are the next step. Benadryl can be purchased over the counter, either as pills for adults or elixirs for children.
Ataraz and Periactin are also commonly prescribed, and like Benadryl, are histamine blockers. Histamine is one of the chemical mediators released from cells in the burn scar, called mast cells that are chronically stimulated during the final maturation phase of healing.
The problem with the older histamine blockers like Benadryl is that they commonly cause drowsiness. The newer generation of histamine blockers, familiar to those of us with allergies, includes such drugs as Seldane and Claritin which do not cause drowsiness in most people.
Recently we have had good success with Claritin 10mg taken once a day. More severe symptoms require the treatment supervision of a physician. Some patients require oral steroids such as prednisone for relief, but steroids have many side effects and should be used with caution.
Tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil can also be helpful. Again, these drugs are by prescription only, and should only be used with appropriate supervision. Finally, there are many nonpharmacologic approaches to pain and itch management. When to seek medical attention for a blister See your doctor or other health professional for treatment if: the blister is caused by a burn, scald or severe sunburn the blister starts weeping pus yellow or green, sometimes smelly, fluid the area becomes increasingly swollen or inflamed you suspect the blister is infected you develop multiple blisters without any preceding skin injury.
Treatment for blisters If your blister requires treatment by a health professional, this may include depending on the cause of the blister : sterile drainage of fluid from the blister professional dressing or padding techniques antibiotics, in the case of a bacterial infection antifungal preparations, in the case of a fungal infection antiviral preparations, in the case of a viral infection treatment for any underlying allergy.
Prevention of blisters Blister prevention strategies include: Wear properly fitted shoes. Choose moisture-wicking socks socks that draw sweat away from your feet or change socks twice daily if you have sweaty feet, as wet socks cause friction and rubbing. Wear 'sports socks' when exercising or playing sports.
If you become aware of a localised 'hot' area on your foot, stop your sport and tape the area immediately. Apply a foot spray deodorant to reduce sweating and the risk of fungal infection. Change damp socks promptly, as wet socks can drag against the skin.
Wear heavy-duty work gloves when using tools such as shovels or picks. Protect yourself against sunburn with clothing, hats and sunscreen lotions. Avoid unnecessary skin contact with chemicals. Be careful when dealing with steam, flames or objects that radiate heat such as electric stovetops. Blisters , My Dr. Give feedback about this page. Was this page helpful? Always see your doctor if the wound is deep, bleeding or shows signs of infection like reddening, swelling or warmth.
Also make sure to seek medical help if you are not able to clean the wound properly. In case you have diabetes a proper wound care is of special importance. Please note that none of the above given tips or recommendations substitute medical advice.
Important: consult a health professional in case of any uncertainty of treating your wound properly. The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care or advice. If you have or suspect a health problem, you should consult your doctor. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it, because of something you have read on this website.
For further information regarding Elastoplast products, please contact us via email on Australia. ConsumerServices Beiersdorf. Carefully read the instructions for use given in our products' packages.
Although compiled with great care, please note that the tips and advice given on this website by no means substitute medical advice and treatment. If you have or suspect a health problem, consult a doctor and follow medical advice regardless of what you have learned on this website. Always read carefully and follow the instructions for use or the leaflets of our products. For further information about our products, please contact us here.
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